The Next Center provides a collaborative space for startups, established businesses, and research institutions to come together on the first floor in its business incubator and community education spaces. The second floor is home to the headquarters of Lakeshore Advantage, and the third floor is reserved for an established business tenant that complements the ecosystem.
Lakeshore Advantage has supported product and technology startups with entrepreneurial programming since 2015, when the Holland SmartZone was established. The program, now known as SURGE powered by Lakeshore Advantage, currently boasts 38 members and has supported hundreds of concepts since its inception. Providing support for startups is part of the economic development organization’s strategy for developing a diversified regional economy and empowering the region to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy.
“Entrepreneurship can’t be hidden; it can’t be tucked away,” said Jennifer Owens, President of Lakeshore Advantage. “We need to make a visible, accessible statement that the entrepreneurial ecosystem is alive, well, and growing—and come on in and be part of it!”
Site Development
Built on an old urban industrial site, the Next Center required deep foundations and careful execution around adjacent city utilities.
Self-Performed Trades
EV employed its full range of in-house trades on the Next Center. From sitework to paint, our teams helped create a dynamic space for entrepreneurship in downtown Holland.
Finishing Touches
The Next Center provides its members with access to a variety of spaces for collaboration, remote meetings, and demonstration of new products and ideas.
The People
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John Parker
Vice President of Project Development -
Doug Eddy
Senior Field Manager -
Joe Shashaguay Jr.
Field Manager -
Curt Hielke
Senior Project Manager -
Abby Leatherman-Przysucha
Assistant Project Manager
